Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A communications device for communicating via a mobile communications network that includes one or more network elements providing a wireless access interface, the communications device comprising: circuitry configured to transmit signals to the mobile communications network via the wireless access interface; receive signals from the mobile communications network via the wireless access interface; transmit a random access message to a first network element via a random access channel of the wireless access interface which is common to one or more other communications devices; receive, from the first network element in response to the random access message in a case that communications resources of a shared uplink channel are allocated for the communications device to transmit signals to the first network element, an acknowledgement that provides an indication of the allocation of the communications resources of the shared uplink channel for the communications device; receive, from the first network element in response to the random access message in a case that the communications resources of the shared uplink channel are not allocated for the communications device, a negative acknowledgement providing an indication that the communications device has not been allocated the communications resources of the shared uplink channel; and retransmit, in response to detection of one or more random access failure conditions, the random access message one or more times such that each retransmission of the random access message is performed after a variable delay which is greater than or equal to a delay of a previous retransmission, wherein the circuitry is further configured to receive a broadcast message from the first network element, the broadcast message indicating one or more of the random access failure conditions.
A communications device operates within a mobile communications network that includes network elements providing a wireless access interface. The device includes circuitry to transmit and receive signals via this interface. During operation, the device sends a random access message to a first network element over a random access channel shared with other devices. If the network allocates uplink resources on a shared channel, the device receives an acknowledgement confirming the allocation. If no resources are allocated, a negative acknowledgement is received. The device retransmits the random access message upon detecting one or more random access failure conditions, with each retransmission occurring after a variable delay that increases with each attempt. The network broadcasts a message specifying the failure conditions to guide the device's retransmission behavior. This system improves resource allocation efficiency and reduces contention in shared wireless networks by dynamically adjusting retransmission timing based on network feedback.
2. The communications device of claim 1 , wherein each delay before the retransmission of the random access message is comprised of a delay randomly selected from between a minimum delay period and a maximum delay period, and the maximum delay period associated with each retransmission is greater than that of a previous retransmission.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving random access procedures to reduce collisions and improve efficiency. The problem addressed is the inefficiency in current random access protocols where devices retransmit messages without sufficient randomization, leading to repeated collisions and delays. The invention describes a communications device configured to retransmit a random access message with progressively increasing delay periods. Each retransmission delay is randomly selected within a defined range, where the maximum delay period for each subsequent retransmission is greater than the previous one. This ensures that devices attempting to access the network spread their retransmissions over a longer timeframe, reducing the likelihood of repeated collisions. The initial delay range is set based on system parameters, and the maximum delay increases exponentially or linearly with each retransmission attempt. This adaptive approach helps balance between quick access and collision avoidance, improving overall network performance. The device may also adjust the delay parameters based on network conditions or received signals to further optimize access efficiency.
3. The communications device of claim 1 , wherein in response to the detection of one or more random access failure conditions, the circuitry is configured to select a second network element to which to transmit a subsequent random access message to, the second network element having been selected in accordance with a network element selection or reselection criterion.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving random access procedures in cellular networks. The problem addressed is the inefficiency and delays caused by random access failures, where a communication device repeatedly attempts to connect to a network element (e.g., a base station) without success. Such failures can degrade network performance and user experience. The invention describes a communication device with circuitry that detects one or more random access failure conditions, such as repeated transmission attempts without acknowledgment or excessive delays. In response, the circuitry selects a second network element (e.g., a different base station or cell) to transmit a subsequent random access message. The selection of the second network element is based on a predefined criterion, which may include factors like signal strength, network load, or historical success rates. This dynamic reselection process helps avoid persistent failures by redirecting access attempts to a more suitable network element, improving connection reliability and reducing latency. The circuitry may also implement additional logic, such as adjusting transmission parameters or retry intervals, to further optimize the random access procedure. The overall solution enhances network efficiency by intelligently managing access attempts in the face of failures.
4. The communications device of claim 3 , wherein the network element selection or reselection criterion includes a negative offset configured to be applied to a signal strength of signals received from the first network element, and the circuitry is configured to receive signals transmitted by the one or more network elements; determine a signal strength of each of the received signals from each of the one or more network elements and establish corresponding parameters associated with the selection or reselection criterion, to apply the negative offset to the parameter associated with the selection or reselection criterion associated with the first network element; and select the second network element in accordance with the selection or reselection criterion associated with the respective network elements.
This invention relates to wireless communications, specifically improving network element selection or reselection in a communications device. The problem addressed is optimizing the selection of network elements (e.g., base stations) to enhance connectivity and performance, particularly when multiple network elements are available. The solution involves applying a negative offset to the signal strength of signals received from a first network element, which reduces its perceived signal quality relative to other network elements. The communications device receives signals from one or more network elements, measures their signal strengths, and applies the negative offset to the parameter associated with the first network element. This adjustment influences the selection or reselection criterion, ensuring the device prioritizes a second network element over the first. The circuitry within the device performs these measurements and adjustments, enabling more efficient network element selection based on modified signal strength parameters. This approach helps avoid overloading a preferred network element and improves overall network efficiency by dynamically adjusting selection criteria.
5. The communications device of claim 4 , wherein the offset has a size which has an effect of preventing reselection of the first network element.
A communications device is configured to manage network reselection in a wireless communication system where multiple network elements, such as base stations or access points, are available. The device includes a processor and a memory storing instructions that, when executed, cause the device to determine an offset value for a first network element. This offset value is applied to influence the reselection criteria, such as signal strength or quality thresholds, for the first network element. The size of the offset is specifically designed to prevent the device from reselecting the first network element, effectively discouraging the device from switching back to the first network element after leaving it. This mechanism helps optimize network load balancing, reduce unnecessary handover procedures, or avoid poor-quality connections by ensuring the device remains connected to a more suitable network element. The offset may be dynamically adjusted based on network conditions, device mobility, or other factors to further enhance network efficiency and user experience.
6. The communications device of claim 1 , wherein the circuitry is configured to increase a power with which the random access message is retransmitted for each time that the random access message is retransmitted.
This invention relates to wireless communications, specifically improving the reliability of random access procedures in cellular networks. The problem addressed is the inefficiency of fixed-power retransmissions in random access, which can lead to unnecessary delays or failures when initial transmissions are not received due to interference or fading. The invention describes a communications device, such as a user equipment (UE) in a cellular network, that includes circuitry configured to dynamically adjust the transmission power of random access messages. When a random access message (e.g., a preamble) is retransmitted after a failed attempt, the circuitry increases the power level for each subsequent retransmission. This adaptive power control ensures that retransmissions have a higher likelihood of being successfully received by the base station, reducing the number of failed attempts and improving overall network efficiency. The circuitry may also include a power control module that determines the power increment based on predefined rules, network conditions, or feedback from the base station. The retransmission power may be increased by a fixed step size or a variable step size, depending on the implementation. This approach optimizes power usage while minimizing retransmission delays, particularly in scenarios with high interference or poor signal conditions. The invention applies to both uplink and downlink random access procedures in 4G, 5G, or future wireless communication systems, enhancing reliability and reducing latency in initial network access.
7. The communications device of claim 1 , wherein the random access failure conditions include transmitting the random access message a predetermined number of times.
A communications device is configured to handle random access failures in wireless networks, particularly in scenarios where a user equipment (UE) repeatedly fails to establish a connection with a base station. The device monitors random access procedures and detects failure conditions, such as when a random access message is transmitted a predetermined number of times without a successful response. Upon detecting such a condition, the device triggers a fallback mechanism, such as switching to a different frequency band, cell, or network mode to improve connectivity. The device may also adjust transmission parameters, such as power levels or timing, to mitigate persistent failures. This approach ensures reliable communication by dynamically adapting to network conditions, reducing service interruptions, and optimizing resource usage. The solution is particularly useful in dense urban environments or areas with high interference, where random access failures are more likely to occur. By proactively addressing these failures, the device enhances network efficiency and user experience.
8. The communications device of claim 1 , wherein the random access failure conditions include failing to receive within a predetermined time an acknowledgement providing an indication of an allocation of the shared uplink channel.
A communications device is designed to handle random access failures in wireless communication systems, particularly in scenarios where shared uplink channels are used. The device monitors for an acknowledgement signal from a network indicating an allocation of the shared uplink channel. If the device fails to receive this acknowledgement within a predetermined time, it identifies this as a random access failure condition. This failure condition triggers the device to take corrective actions, such as retrying the random access procedure or switching to an alternative communication method. The device may also log the failure for diagnostic purposes or adjust its transmission parameters to improve future access attempts. The system ensures reliable communication by detecting and responding to access failures, reducing delays and improving network efficiency. The invention is particularly useful in high-traffic environments where shared uplink channels are prone to contention and allocation delays.
9. The communications device of claim 1 , wherein the random access message is retransmitted at a power less than or equal to a maximum transmit power.
A communications device is configured to manage random access message retransmissions in a wireless network. The device includes a transmitter and a controller. The controller determines a maximum transmit power for retransmitting a random access message and ensures that the retransmission power does not exceed this limit. The transmitter then retransmits the random access message at a power level that is less than or equal to the determined maximum transmit power. This approach helps prevent excessive power consumption and interference in the network while maintaining reliable communication. The device may also include a receiver to monitor network conditions and adjust the retransmission power dynamically. The controller may further implement power control algorithms to optimize retransmission efficiency. The system is particularly useful in scenarios where multiple devices compete for network access, ensuring fair and efficient resource utilization. The invention addresses the problem of uncontrolled retransmission power in wireless networks, which can lead to wasted energy and degraded performance. By enforcing a maximum transmit power constraint, the device improves network stability and battery life for connected devices.
10. The communications device of claim 1 , wherein the circuitry is configured to receive a broadcast message from the first network element, the delay being calculated in accordance with a parameter indicated in the broadcast message.
A communications device operates within a wireless network to manage timing synchronization and reduce interference. The device includes circuitry that receives a broadcast message from a network element, such as a base station or access point, which contains a parameter used to calculate a delay. This delay is applied to adjust the timing of transmissions or receptions to avoid collisions with other devices. The broadcast message may include synchronization signals, timing advance values, or other configuration data that the device uses to determine the optimal delay. By dynamically adjusting timing based on network conditions, the device improves spectral efficiency and reduces interference in shared communication channels. The circuitry may also process additional parameters from the broadcast message to refine delay calculations, ensuring precise synchronization with the network. This approach is particularly useful in dense network environments where multiple devices must coordinate their transmissions to prevent signal interference. The device may further include antennas, transceivers, and processing units to execute these functions, ensuring reliable communication while minimizing latency and power consumption.
11. The communications device of claim 1 , wherein the circuitry is configured to receive a broadcast message from the first network element, a network element reselection criterion parameter being indicated in the broadcast message.
A communications device operates within a wireless network environment where seamless connectivity and efficient network resource utilization are critical. The device includes circuitry designed to receive broadcast messages from a network element, such as a base station or access point. These broadcast messages contain a network element reselection criterion parameter, which defines conditions or thresholds for the device to switch between different network elements. The parameter may include metrics like signal strength, quality of service, or load balancing factors, enabling the device to make informed decisions about network reselection. This functionality enhances network efficiency by reducing unnecessary handover procedures and improving overall user experience. The circuitry processes the parameter to determine optimal network connections, ensuring reliable and uninterrupted communication. The device may also include additional components, such as a transceiver for wireless communication and a processor for executing network-related tasks. The reselection criterion parameter helps the device adapt to dynamic network conditions, supporting seamless mobility across different network elements while minimizing latency and resource overhead. This approach is particularly useful in dense network deployments where multiple overlapping coverage areas exist, ensuring efficient use of network infrastructure.
12. A method of communicating via a mobile communications network that includes one or more network elements providing a wireless access interface, the method comprising: transmitting, by a communications device, signals to the mobile communications network via the wireless access interface; receiving signals from the mobile communications network via the wireless access interface; transmitting a random access message to a first network element via a random access channel of the wireless access interface which is common to one or more other communications devices; receiving, by the communications device from the first network element in response to the random access message in a case that the communications resources of a shared uplink channel are allocated for the communications device to transmit signals to the first network element, an acknowledgement that provides an indication of the allocation of the communications resources of the shared uplink channel for the communications device; receiving, by the communications device from the first network element in response to the random access message in a case that the communications resources of the shared uplink channel are not allocated for the communications device, a negative acknowledgement providing an indication that the communications device has not been allocated communications resources of the shared uplink channel; receiving a broadcast message from the first network element, the broadcast message indicating one or more of the random access failure conditions; and retransmitting, in response to detection of one or more random access failure conditions, the random access message one or more times such that each re-transmission of the random access message is performed after a variable delay which is greater than or equal to a delay of a previous re-transmission.
This invention relates to wireless communication methods in mobile networks, specifically improving random access procedures to handle resource allocation and failure conditions. The method involves a communications device transmitting and receiving signals via a wireless access interface provided by network elements in a mobile communications network. The device sends a random access message to a first network element over a shared random access channel, which is also used by other devices. If the network allocates shared uplink channel resources for the device, it receives an acknowledgement confirming the allocation. If no resources are allocated, the device receives a negative acknowledgement indicating the lack of allocation. The network also broadcasts messages indicating random access failure conditions. Upon detecting such conditions, the device retransmits the random access message multiple times, with each retransmission occurring after a variable delay that is longer than or equal to the delay of the previous attempt. This approach ensures efficient use of shared resources and mitigates contention in the random access process.
13. Circuitry for a communications device that communicates via a mobile communications network that includes one or more network elements providing a wireless access interface, the circuitry configured to: transmit signals to the mobile communications network via the wireless access interface; receive signals from the mobile communications network via the wireless access interface; transmit a random access message to a first network element via a random access channel of the wireless access interface which is common to one or more other communications devices; receive, from the first network element in response to the random access message in a case that communications resources of a shared uplink channel are allocated for the communications device to transmit signals to the first network element, an acknowledgement that provides an indication of the allocation of the communications resources of the shared uplink channel for the communications device; receive, from the first network element in response to the random access message in a case that the communications resources of the shared uplink channel are not allocated for the communications device, a negative acknowledgement providing an indication that the communications device has not been allocated the communications resources of the shared uplink channel; receive a broadcast message from the first network element, the broadcast message indicating one or more of the random access failure conditions; and retransmit, in response to detection of one or more random access failure conditions, the random access message one or more times such that each retransmission of the random access message is performed after a variable delay which is greater than or equal to a delay of a previous retransmission.
The invention relates to a communications device for use in a mobile communications network, addressing challenges in random access procedures. The device includes circuitry to transmit and receive signals via a wireless access interface provided by network elements. During random access, the device sends a random access message to a network element via a shared random access channel. If the network allocates uplink resources, the device receives an acknowledgement confirming resource allocation. If no resources are allocated, a negative acknowledgement is received. The device also monitors broadcast messages from the network element to detect random access failure conditions. Upon detecting such conditions, the device retransmits the random access message with increasing delays between attempts, ensuring efficient and adaptive retry mechanisms. This approach improves reliability and reduces congestion in the random access process by dynamically adjusting retransmission timing based on network feedback and failure conditions. The solution enhances communication efficiency in scenarios where multiple devices compete for shared uplink resources.
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February 25, 2020
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